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Caribbean Steel Pans

Caribbean Steel Pan is a Western-tuned steel drum family used for melody and rhythm. Starter Jumbie pans are 40cm with eight labelled notes (G4–G5) and Z stands adjustable 60–96cm; professional lead pans are 23″ diameter with 8.5″ skirts, and typical class costs start from £60 per player, with books, song packs and videos for whole-class learning.

Caribbean Steel Pan sets support inclusive, whole-class music making. Western-tuned layouts blend with tuned percussion, pop, and classical. Jumbie Jam pans give beginners fast wins with clear note guides and sturdy stands. As skills grow, add lead/tenor, double seconds, and six bass to form balanced ensembles. Primary and Secondary groups progress smoothly, while Adult and SEND learners benefit from simple ostinatos and shared parts.

For smooth sessions, set stand height so wrists stay neutral. Coach light strokes and two-beat damping for clean chords. Keep mallets together and store pans in carry bags to speed changeovers. Use Percussion Buddies to add colour and support mixed-ability parts. Teaching is backed by Andy Gleadhill’s book, audio tracks, and how-to video clips, plus lesson plans and CPD resources. Everything scales from classroom sets to clubs and community groups.